HÀ NỘI — Chinese traditional music and singing was introduced to Hà Nội audience through a folk song choral programme themed Dialogue – Resonance – A Journey with Chinese Folk Songs on November 13.

Artists and singers from the China National Traditional Orchestra performed at the Chinese Cultural Centre in Hà Nội, marking their second show in the city after delighting audiences at the Việt Nam National Arts Theatre on November 11.

This initiative aimed to deepen cultural and artistic exchange between Việt Nam and China, offering the Vietnamese public an opportunity to explore the unique qualities of traditional Chinese music while strengthening the bonds between the two peoples.

Founded in Beijing, China in 1960, the orchestra is a state-level (national) performing arts institution directly administered and endorsed by China's Ministry of Culture  and Tourism. Its mission is to promote and advance China's musical heritage

The Hà Nội's programme was elaborately staged, drawing upon the signature artistic project Traveling with Folk Songs, using the concept of "an exploration of China’s various regions through song" as its overarching narrative thread.

It consisted of four chapters featuring 12 classic folk songs. Utilising choral arrangements as the primary medium, it brought together distinctive folk compositions from various ethnic groups across regions such as Hebei, Shanxi, southern Shaanxi, and Guizhou.

In addition to choral performances, the audience also enjoyed solo acts featuring traditional musical instruments, such as the bamboo flute and lusheng, a Chinese ancient, polyphonic free-reed mouth organ with a history spanning roughly 3,000 years.

Through these pieces, the programme vividly portrayed the daily lives, cultural traits, and unique customs of the people from these diverse areas and ethnic communities.

Additionally, the show included a photography exhibition and screenings of short videos showcasing the natural landscapes of the various locations featured in the Traveling with Folk Songs project. These elements offer guests an opportunity to explore regional characteristics and the cultural depth of Chinese folk music through a vivid, multi-dimensional perspective. — VNS